Basseterre, St. Kitts (SKNIS) — During a recent international media group visit to the Republic of China (Taiwan), Grell Browne, Director of the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service had the opportunity to visit the Headquarters of the International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF).
The media group was briefed on the International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF) which was established in 1996 by the ROC with the goal of assisting developing diplomatic allied nations to meet their national development objectives.
St. Kitts and Nevis has benefitted from the fund over the years in the areas of agriculture, renewable energy, information and communications technology as well as obtaining educational scholarships and training.
Recently, five persons received scholarships from the ICDF to pursue post graduate studies in Taiwan bringing the total to 29, the students from St. Kitts and Nevis who have benefited from the fund.
Commenting on the assistance of the ICDF in St. Kitts and Nevis, Mr. Browne said “it is very evident that the support and generosity of the government and the people of the Republic of China (Taiwan) through its programs like the ICDF and others, have been instrumental in the continuing development of the twin island Federation.”
According to the fund’s Deputy Secretary General, Dr. Pai-Po Lee, an allocation in the region of US $70 million is made annually to various projects of diplomatic allies.
Deputy Secretary General Lee said international partners receive support in public health and medicine, education, information technology development and E-Government transition. Projects in environmental sustainability through the development and use of renewable energy and the development or improvement of sustainable agricultural sectors have also been funded.
“A tour of Taiwan clearly provides a look into the “can do” attitude of a people united in ensuring a leadership position for their country.” Mr. Browne added, “I was able to see why Taiwan is a leader in technology, the vibrancy of its economy and a people who have embraced and live democracy. Taiwan in 60 years has moved from an aid recipient country to an aid providing country and Taiwan has clearly demonstrated a giving spirit to its friends.”
The media tour is designed to give media practitioners a better understanding of the Republic of China (Taiwan), its government and people.